D50
Dynasties
By James
Chapter 50: Epilogue
A crowd of thousands had gathered before Hadea's Golden Palace. The Phantom eyed the mass on a video screen. Numerous commoners had journeyed from across the five kingdoms, and several nobles were grouped up together as well. All eyes were focused on the royal stage, where the radiant empress sat at his side.
The Phantom was donned in a white tuxedo. His famous mask was nowhere to be found.
Hadea was wrapped in a sparkling dress. A thin veil hung in front of her face.
He was so thrilled while looking at her.
Down below, a row of special guests were sitting just before the platform. Each of them were dressed in elegant formal wear as well.
As a quiet tune reached its end, a pale minister in a silver doublet stepped onto the stage. "Before we proceed with the ceremony, several people would like to say a few words." He motioned for the first guest to approach.
Flash jogged up the steps and walked to a golden altar. He straightened his suit jacket as he looked over toward the Phantom. "I was all set to give this fancy, philosophical speech about how life is a journey, and we're all searching for 'the one.' Instead, I'll just say that you've found her, and I wish the two of you all the best."
The Phantom nodded with a smile, and Hadea did the same.
Moments after Flash had taken his seat, Lothar stood before the altar and addressed the empress. "You're a very dedicated ruler, Hadea. You've brought happiness to several people, and you deserve happiness of your own." He eyed them both. "I'm glad that the two of you have found it together."
As Lothar stepped down, Mandrake approached the altar and smiled at the Phantom. "You once doubted that you'd ever see a day like this one. Needless to say, I'm glad that you were wrong. Congratulations, friends."
Rick reached the altar next, and looked toward Hadea. "You've given me a good deal of advice over the past year or so. I've followed it on some occasions, and taken a different path on others. The bottom line, however, is that you cared enough to offer it, and I'm grateful for that." He took a few seconds to look her over. "I once thought that I could never respect anyone the way that I respected my mom...but there are times when I seem to have a similar respect for you."
Hadea's gaze softened as she absorbed his words. Unlike on certain previous occasions, the Phantom noted, she had no problem letting Rick know that his affection was mutual.
Rick turned toward the Phantom. "She's a keeper, big guy."
The Phantom grinned.
LJ approached next, and eyed the Phantom as well. "You're one of the most inspiring people I've ever met. What you've taught me today is that with enough time and work, two people who love each other can make their relationship succeed. Congratulations to you both."
The Phantom mouthed a thank-you as LJ stepped down.
Kshin took the stage and glanced around a bit. Then he chuckled while spreading his arms for a second. "I once vowed that I would never attend a wedding for as long as I lived. When I was younger, getting married seemed like such an icky thing to do."
A few giggles came from the seats below.
Kshin eyed Hadea and the Phantom warmly. "But I have to say that I'm very proud to be here today, because there's certainly nothing 'icky' about what I'm seeing right now." He nodded, then retook his seat.
Krotan stepped up to the altar next, casting a smile toward both of them. "I hope that you'll bring each other as much happiness as your daughter has brought me." He exchanged a warm grin with his wife, then turned back to the Phantom and his bride. "I wish you nothing but the best."
Once the last of the men had stepped down, all eyes turned toward a former Queen of the Netherworld.
Rachel eased her way up the steps, adjusting the long white cape that symbolized her status. She flattened her hands atop the altar, then faced the audience with a grin. "I just want to say that there aren't many people who've moved me or touched me like these two have. The groom inspired me as a soldier, and the bride inspires me as a mother." She looked toward Hadea and her future husband. "You're both remarkable individuals. That's why you deserve what you're giving each other today." She paused, letting her smile linger on them. "Congratulations."
Both nodded while returning her expression.
Rachel descended the steps and took her seat.
And then, everyone turned their attention to the Queen of Mongo, who stepped forth in a regal dress and a glittering crown.
His daughter looked absolutely elegant.
Jedda folded her arms over her chest, eyeing the groom and bride with a taunting smile.
A few chuckles came from the onlookers below.
"What can I say that hasn't already been said?" Jedda glanced upward, then snapped her fingers. "Oh, I know..." She looked straight at them. "About time."
More laughter arrived as she returned to her chair.
Rachel leaned her head playfully against Jedda's, resting it there for a moment as they both eyed the stage.
He was quite glad that they'd grown so close.
Finally, he rose. Hadea did too.
As he and his bride began approaching the altar, all their guests exchanged anxious grins.
The minster smiled. "If you will now join hands and speak the proper words..."
Hadea extended her arms just above her waist, taking the Phantom's palms within her own. "From this day forth, I am yours."
The Phantom looked straight into her eyes. "From this day forth, I am yours."
The minister gazed outward and spoke to the crowd. "Let it be known, among one and all, that the empress of our kingdoms has taken her mate. This woman and this man are eternally wed."
The Phantom beamed. "I love you," he whispered.
Hadea fidgeted within his grasp. "I love you too."
Once he'd lifted her veil, they leaned toward each other, and they slowly kissed.
Several hours had passed since the ceremony's conclusion. Hadea and her husband were alone in their room.
She sat atop the bed in a thin nightgown; no crown was present upon her head. "I came to a certain realization today." She grinned.
Kit strolled about in an evening robe. "What was that?"
Hadea shrugged a little. "I think that I hold a certain distinction among rulers."
He approached with a calm, suspicious smile. "Most successful?"
"No."
"Most tactful?"
"No."
"Most beautiful?"
"No." She shrugged. "I mean yes, probably, but that isn't what I was referring to."
"What were you referring to then?"
A hint of pride appeared in her smile. "I think that I'm the one who's been knelt before the most."
Hadea had held several positions throughout her life — Queen of the Netherworld, galactic ruler, interim Queen of Mongo, and empress of the five kingdoms. As a result, she suspected, more people had knelt before her than any other ruler in the galaxy. And for a while now, people had done so willingly, without pause and with genuine admiration.
"So, then..." He stepped right in front of her. "Since you've had such a high number of kneelers already, I suppose it's all right if your husband stands."
Hadea lifted an eyebrow and flashed a playful grin. "Actually, no. Get down there."
He released a quiet chuckle, lowering himself to one knee.
She took his hands, then guided him up to the bed beside her. "In the past, I would've embraced that distinction with unabashed glee. But now I simply accept it with pride. I don't want reverence, but I appreciate respect."
"And you're deserving of it," he said firmly. "The previous empress knew that you'd rule all five kingdoms someday — not as a conqueror, but as a healer. The admiration that you've gained is a sign of the progress that you've made."
Hadea beamed again. "Like that woman, I could drop my name and simply be known by my title." She smiled. "But I won't do that, because I like the idea of introducing myself as Hadea Walker now and then."
He nodded while wrapping his arms around her. "I very much like the sound of that too."
Easing backward, Hadea snuggled closely in her husband's embrace.
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Volume VIII — End
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Chapters
Volume I
Shorly after Jedda leaves the team, Queen Hadea begins a galactic conquest.
Jedda finds herself back on Mongo — and reunited with Prince Krotan.
Despite their affection, Jedda endeavors to counter Hadea's plans.
Seeking to resolve the matter with Hadea, the Defenders begin a climactic mission on Mongo.
Rick enjoys a meaningful reunion.
Volume II
Jedda and Krotan confront their feelings.
Against the wishes of his wife, Krotan grows tempted to pursue a vendetta.
Rick has a difficult time moving on.
In the wake of Krotan's actions, Jedda faces a difficult choice.
Hadea reunites with an old acquaintance.
The Royals of Mongo organize what's supposed to be a friendly feast.
A glimpse into the future on Mongo.
Volume III
Instead of spending a romantic evening together, as Jedda intended, Hadea and Phantom find themselves pursued.
Amid their exploits, Phantom and Hadea discuss personal matters.
Flash visits Ming's prison while thinking of Dale, and Rick learns that a new girl will be joining the team.
A vengeful woman targets Jedda.
The Defenders face an internal crisis.
Will she choose affection or ambition?
Needing to depart Mongo on business, Jedda and Krotan ask Hadea and Phantom to fill in for them temporarily.
Volume IV
As the enormity of his situation sinks in, an anxious Rick finds unexpected comfort.
Hadea continues to counsel Rick by reminding him that his actions have consequences.
Phantom and Hadea are advised to marry.
The acting rulers face a variety of issues on their big day.
The Defenders consider returning to solo work.
Volume V
Krotan and Jedda try to find time for their marriage while tending to duty.
Someone from Jedda's past returns.
Krotan and the guards attempt to defend the kingdom without Jedda.
Krotan and Ming have another confrontation under different circumstances.
Flash and Rick have a personal discussion.
As Rick prepares to leave the team, he and LJ receive a surprise visit.
Volume VI
The new trio embarks on a mission.
The Phantom is left startled by the recent development.
After spending a couple of days with Jedda, Rachel departs for the tme being.
In the future, Vera receives advice and comfort from her mother.
Jedda reflects on the recent years.
In the aftermath of an attack on her land, Hadea seeks help from a mercenary.
Flash is stunned by his discovery on a distant planet.
Volume VII
Hadea makes an announcement that leaves the Phantom unsettled.
The Phantom works to undo his mistakes.
In the future, the Royals of Mongo enjoy quality time together.
Rachel assists LJ and Hadea in very different ways.
Rachel adjusts to her new position awkwardly.
With Rachel and Jedda at her side, Hadea learns more about the history of her kingdom.
Volume VIII
The Phantom plans to propose.
Hadea and the Phantom attempt to work through their issues.
Rachel visits Hadea to discuss new intentions.
The Defenders confront a group of aliens who have descended on Earth, while Ming continues to scheme behind the scenes.
Flash, Rick, and Krotan engage Ming in battle.
Jade reunites briefly with her daughters.
A special occasion has finally arrived.
Volume IX
Rick has a meeting with Zyna that leaves him staggered.
Flash and Rick travel to another planet to investigate news.
Dale begins to set her agenda in motion.
The Royals of Mongo have a lengthy discussion about the past and future.
Dale takes bold steps forward.
Flash and Rick confront Dale to discuss her actions.
Empress Hadea appoints new queens.
Volume X
In the future, the royals have a discussion about politics on Mongo.
LJ and Lothar discuss family affairs.
Jedda views her official government profile to learn where she ranks among Mongoian queens.
Castra and Aura look to put their differences aside.
The Phantom learns more about Hadea's duties.
Volume XI
The Phantom, Hadea, and Rachel depart for a mission in the Bandar village.
Rachel heads off to find Kurt on her own.
Dale provides answers for Rachel.
Jade observes a significant discussion beween Phantom and Kurt.
Phantom learns that the village mission affected Hadea on a personal level.
Volume XII
Jedda and Krotan renew their commitment.
Krotan pampers Jedda as they discuss the future.
Nearly everyone joins the Phantom for a mission via boat.
The group arrives on Raven Island and learns the identity of the opposing team's leader.
Flash, Dale, and Rick spend time with Flash's sister, Commander Abigail Gordon, and her daughter Sara.
Rick and Kristina head off on a late-night mission.
Kristina, Rick, and Hadea confront their personal matters.
Once again, someone lands on Mandrake's yard during a storm.
Volume XIII
A woman arrives in the Netherworld, claiming to be the rightful ruler.
LJ, Rick, and Rachel investigate the Netherworld matter.
Flash and Dale's date is interrupted by news that Rick has been captured, and it's up to Kristina to save him.
While grouped together one night, several people must team up suddenly in order to defend the mansion.
Atascadero discusses her upbringing with Mandrake.
Volume XIV
Soldiers from Atascadero's kingdom come looking for her.
Ata heads to her kingdom to resolve the issues there.
Vera begins learning more about Jedda's past.
In response to the recent events, Hadea makes a controversial decision.
Rick attempts to resolve a certain personal issue.
Rick and his girlfriend decide to go their separate ways.
Flash, Dale, and Rick reunite with Dale's father, as well as Flash's.
Jonathan Gordon becomes overzealous, leading to repercussions.
Flash and Dale chase Ming down.
Kristina bonds with Rick in the aftermath of the events at the base.
Volume XV
In the future, Jedda and Krotan have to teach Vera the value of humility.
In the future, Vera is courted by several boys.
Rick and Kristina become stranded on an island.
Hadea is approached by an old suitor.
Kristina and Rick grow closer while stuck on the island.
Ata and Mandrake discuss their relationship.
Castra and her husband have a talk about their longtime commitment.
Krotan and Jedda discuss the past, and look to the future.
Flash and Dale reaffirm their feelings.
The series finale.
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